The first step in dealing with any pest or disease issue is correct identification. Correct ID allows the most effective control methods to be selected and saves time, resources, and money.
Early detection and reporting of new, non-native plants, animals, insects, and diseases is a critical component of our response to invasive species. We encourage the public to stay informed about invasive species and, when suspicious sites are found, report them to our Division.
Please use any of the following agencies for identification assistance and reporting invasive species within Indiana. Due to regional differences in flora, insects, and diseases, if you are outside of Indiana, please contact your local extension service or diagnostic lab for assistance.
Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology
While this office is primarily concerned with invasive and exotic plants, insects, and diseases and problems associated with the nursery and landscape industry, homeowners with specific concerns can submit photos to DEPP@dnr.IN.gov, contact a Nursery Inspector, or call (866) NO-EXOTIC [(866) 663-9684].
ReportIN
This ReportIN website and associated smartphone app can be used to report invasive species. The app allows photos and GPS coordinates to be captured and reported to the proper agencies for confirmation. For tutorials and more information about using the App or website, visit the Indiana Invasive Species Council page.
Purdue Extension County Offices
Your local County Extension office can assist with many agricultural, household, and garden questions. Purdue Extension publications are a source of up-to-date, research-based control recommendations.
Purdue University Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab (PPDL)
The PPDL is Indiana’s resource for the identification of insects, plants, and plant diseases as well as diagnosis of plant and pest problems. PPDL does charge a small fee for sample handling.
Suggestions for submitting digital photos:
- Sharp, in-focus, well-lit photos will be most useful. Please double-check your photos before you submit them.
- When possible, please include a size reference. A coin or a dollar bill works very well.
- For plant identifications, please include a whole plant image as well as close-ups of plant parts (leaves, flower, fruit, etc.)
- Please include as much additional information as possible such as: host species, planting date, age of the plant, chemicals used, number of plants affected, where found, patterns, when symptoms first noticed, etc.